Kitchens with Living/Eating/Entertaining Areas

Can you remember when kitchens were ‘just’ kitchens? When islands were – well – only of a green, tropical and sunny nature – and when a breakfast bar was something you might encounter in an American motel? Forty years ago, the closest most people got to a kitchen diner was via a serving hatch in the wall between their dining room or living room and kitchen.

To say ‘times have changed’ is rather an understatement… Today, just about everyone – no matter their budget – wants a kitchen that can multi-task par excellence. This month’s case study of the Prendergasts’ kitchen is just one, shining example. From kitchens that can accommodate supper parties for 20 to kitchens that offer kick-back space for kids; from kitchens with professionally-specified appliances to kitchens that make space for work, emails and prep, we’ve helped our clients make them happen.

Here are some of our favourites. And alongside, some of our tips for planning the ultimate kitchen-lifestyle space.

We love the layout of this timeless kitchen. Kate Shreffler, Customer Relations Manager at Bryan Turner Kitchen Furniture explains, “The round table nestles into the curve of the island – so no matter what you’re doing – cooking or chatting – everyone’s involved. A palette of light colours and modern materials, such as the glass panels on the mezzanine, keep everything open and fluid. Gorgeous.”

This must be one of the freshest, family-friendly open-plan kitchens we’ve ever designed. Bryan Turner, founder and managing director of BTKF comments, “The colours and choice of materials, fabrics and furniture is outstanding – but look carefully – and you’ll also see how considerately the different ‘zones’ have been laid out. There’s a fabulously inviting ‘lounging’ area, whilst one of the two islands is ‘double-sided’ – with sink, tap and work surfaces on one side and a neat, homeworking desk on the other.”

Jonathan Turner, Designer at BTKF says, “This is such an elegant kitchen and with that beautiful, solid table – it’s just made for family and friends to congregate in. That said, I think the stunning Sub-Zero fridge freezer and stylish, corner pantry – with their vast capacity for delicious food and drink – must be something of a draw, too!” Details make the difference whatever your budget and from the stunning light fitting to the painting (which Jonathan tells us inspired much of the kitchen’s colour scheme), they make this lovely kitchen space very individual.